7. V/ith the use of enzymes called restriction enzymes, or 
endonucleases, it is possible to cleave the DIM of one organism 
and splice in a portion of the DNA of a second organism which lias 
been similarly cleaved. The splicing can be sealed with another 
enzyme called DNA ligase, and the composite DNA can then be 
inserted into a host organism where the foreign genetic infor- 
mation may be expressed and reproduced. 
8. Using recombinant DNA techniques, genetic information 
from any living organism can be implanted into bacteria. Also, 
genetic information from lower organisms such as viruses can be 
inserted into and expressed in higher organisms. This rapid 
exchange of genetic information across wide species barriers, as 
can occur in recombinant DNA research, is rare in nature and 
limited by reproductive barriers. 
9. The recombinant DNA technique is a powerful new 
scientific tool which, while providing speed and convenience in 
the conduct of genetic research, permits hitherto impossible 
genetic manipulations with little control over the outcome of 
these manipulations. It is now possible artificially to mani- 
pulate the course of evolution within a short period of time 
using a technique different and far more extensive than that of 
traditional breeding techniques. Recombinant DNA research raises 
unprecedented hazards to humans and the environment compounded 
i 
by the inability to predict the outcome of the research, and the 
ability of a dangerous organism to replicate, maintain and 
establish itself in the ecosphere. 
10. Escherichia coli (E. coli), the host organism most 
widely used in recombinant DNA research, is a ubiquitous organism 
v<hich resides in the human gut, in all warm blooded species, 
I economically important and otherwise, in water supplies, and 
other places. It has pathogenic , or disease causing capabilities. 
F. . coli is frequently associated with upper urinary tract 
infections in humans. It is capable of transferring the foreign 
